3D Printing at the Library

The 3D printer is currently undergoing maintenance and repair. We hope to have it back in service soon. 2/1/19

Purpose:

To support our goals of serving as a technology hub and providing lifelong learning opportunities, the Jefferson County Library offers community access to new and emerging technologies. This policy establishes how and under what circumstances the public may use the Library’s 3D printing service. You can view the complete policy here.

Procedures for requesting a print:

The procedure for printing from the Library’s 3D printers is as follows:

1. Design creation:

a. The 3D printer can be used with basic knowledge of Computer Assisted Drawing (CAD). Creating a new design requires an advanced knowledge of 3D modeling software products. Video tutorials that accompany CAD programs can be of assistance.

b. Any 3D drafting software may be used to create a design as long as the file can be saved in .stl file format.

c. There is online software such as TinkerCad that may be used on library computers to create a design.

d. Digital designs also are available from various file-sharing databases such as Thingiverse.com.

2. Submitting a design for printing:

a. Persons wanting to use the 3D printer shall use this form, 3D-Print-Formor email the file in .stl or .obj file format (no larger than 10MB) to information@jclibrary.info. If emailing, please use the subject line 3D print and include your name in the email. Staff will add the model to the printing queue.

b. If there is high demand, the Library will schedule only one print per day per person or entity.

c. The files will be readied for printing in FlashPrint or other authorized software. The Library will view all files in FlashPrint or other authorized software before printing.

d. Wait/pickup time: It is difficult to estimate exact print times. Library staff will make an educated guess about the length of a job upon request.

3. Please note that procedures governing the use of the Library’s 3D printers are subject to change.

Definitions• 3D printing: the process of making a physical object from a digital model.• 3D Printer: A 3D printer uses melted plastic to produce objects designed on a computer.• CAD: Computer Assisted Drawing